What to Wear for a Family Photo Session
As a family photographer in SW Florida, this is the number one question I’m asked by families after they schedule their family photo session. Here’s my suggestions for what to wear for a family photo session so everyone looks and feel great.
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1. Coordinate but don’t match
The more people in the group, the more difficult it may be to coordinate so I recommend choosing a color theme like “blue and white”, “pastels”, “fall colors”, etc. and have family members choose clothes along those guidelines. Remember to COORDINATE but you don’t have to MATCH.
Scroll to See Color Combination Ideas
Blue, White & Tan 
Pastel Colors 
White & Beige 
Browns & Neutrals 
Green & White 
Pastel Colors 
Blue & Pink 
Blue, White & Teal 
Blue & White 
Blue & White 
Green, White & Tan 
Fall Colors 
Pink & Cream
2. Consider your home decor colors
If you’re planning on hanging your photos as art in your home, doesn’t it make sense that your clothes should coordinate with your room color schemes. Florida homes are often filled with blue and white, but if you’re visiting from out of state, your walls may be tan, brown or gray. Look around your own home for color inspiration for what you like and what will look great hanging as a statement piece that you’ll see every day.
3. Choose the woman’s outfit first
Often, women’s clothes can be more interesting, colorful and have patterns. Plus, we know it’s usually the moms that are putting it all together. Don’t feel guilty about choosing your own outfit first, then look at the colors in it, to coordinate the men. Patterns used sparingly and tastefully are fine. Just don’t mix too many colors or patterns if you’re striving for a cohesive look.
4. Dressing up makes you more confident and looks better too
This is a special occasion, so treat it as such. The better you look, the better you feel and that comes through in your photos. Women look great in dresses and skirts. Men often wear khakis or dress shorts with a collared shirt. Keep children’s clothes logo free for a timeless look. And feel free to bring a change of clothes if you like, especially for toddlers. It’s easy and quick to change a kid’s shirt if they have a spill or get themselves messy.
5. Consider Florida Weather
Think about the weather. Yes, it’s Florida, but we have changes in the seasons too. During December, January, and February, it can get chilly. You may laugh when you’re up north and I tell you it’s “cold” here (and you’re sitting in a snowstorm) but you’ll realize what I mean when you’re shivering on the beach with a cold northern breeze blowing. On the other hand, June through September is HOT and HUMID with a chance of evening showers on any given day. The ocean breeze makes it humid and wet-so quick dry clothes for men are a plus and short dresses and skirts for women look great and make it more comfortable.
6. Look at yourself from every angle
Once you’ve narrowed down your outfit, put it on and look at yourself from the front, side and back. I will capture every angle of you at some point during our session so consider if you’re happy with how you look from the side and back as well. Is it worth it to wear shapewear for an hour to smooth out any lumps? Does your bra strap show? Does it need to be ironed? It’s best to realize these things before walking out the door.
7. Think about the details
Think about the details. Jewelry is great, but a necklace that we’re always worried about making sure is hanging right can become a distraction. I’m not intentionally focusing on photographing your hands (unless it’s a wedding or engagement photo) but old, chipped nail polish is never a good look for photographs.
Shoes-a beach shoot will probably start with some photos on a street or park so bring something photo worthy. When we get to the beach, I always recommend everyone do the same thing-either everyone takes them off-or everyone leaves them on. That way it looks intentional. 99% of families choose to go barefoot, because it’s a beach shoot after all!
8. We can’t control the weather
The wind is probably going to blow. I do the best I can to work with the wind but if you have long hair that is going to constantly blow in your face and ruin your photo, please consider an updo or bringing along a headband or hairclip to control it.
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